The Scotland international has filled in there in the last four matches following Neil Taylor’s red card against Bolton Wanderers in September, but even when the Welshman returned to the squad in Lancashire he had to settle for a place on the substitutes bench.

Even though Hutton perhaps hasn’t been the most popular figure among the Villa Park faithful during his time with the Midlands outfit having been part of the disappointing seasons in the Premier League and the relegation, he shone against the Lilywhites on Wednesday and proved to be a real handful from an attacking point of view.

Aston Villa supporters were quick to have their say on his showing via social media, and while one described him as “a monster”, another said he is “making me eat my words”.

Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction…

Alan Hutton has been great in the last 3 games. Immense performance tonight. So much respect for him. #AVFC